There’s no universal definition of comfort food, but there are some common characteristics: dishes that are deeply savory, uncomplicated, filling, and nostalgic. I can’t nail the latter for you, so here are some restaurants to try for new comfort food on this rainy weekend.
Cucina Di Paolo’s Lasagna & Pot Pies
Known for serving take-and-bake lasagnas and pot pies for 18 years — and the animatronic “Betty the Washerwoman” at their location on Vista Avenue — owner Mary Jean Wegner dropped some news this week that makes a visit to Cucina Di Paolo even more worthwhile.
Wegner wrote to her community of supporters that the restaurant will be closing on April 27, leaving Boiseans only a few more months to get a comforting dinner from the family-owned restaurant.
Mount Everest Momo Café
The chana masala at Momo Café will forever be one of my favorite phone-it-in-day dishes, and this Nepali kitchen has everything from curries to dumplings and soups.
Boise has a handful of great Indian restaurants that provide heat and satisfaction, but, being Nepali, Momo Café is a great introduction to Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian food all in one. Plus, they’ve got great vegan and vegetarian options!
Chef’s Hut & Other Diners
For a deeply American definition of comfort food, you might want to head to your favorite diner. Calling itself “Boise’s best kept secret since 1974,” Chef’s Hut is a great candidate for breakfast and lunch (open from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.). For something that’s open a little later, try Eddie’s or Merritt’s.
The arroz con pollo with a side of plantains at Wepa. (Blake Hunter / City Cast Boise)
Wepa Café
Adding a needed variation to Idaho’s classic culinary scope, Wepa is a Puerto Rican restaurant that’s quickly become a Garden City staple. Try the pastelillos, the mofongo, plantains prepared three different ways — honestly, try anything! A portion of their revenue goes to support recovery efforts in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria.
Bar Gernika
If you welcome a little heat with fries and a beer, look no further than Bar Gernika. Sitting inside the bar with a lamb grinder or stew and a plate of croquetas on a rainy day, you’ll be transported to a European pub for a little while.
Soup Season
For a bowl of locally made soup to go with some fresh bread or a sandwich, try these spots:
